Abstract

As market demands continue to evolve, refineries must adapt and expand beyond traditional fuels to produce high-value chemicals, driving the need for innovative solutions that maximize the conversion of liquids into chemicals. Our research and development efforts are focused on addressing the challenges of future downstream expansion, with an emphasis on improving yields in existing refineries and petrochemical plants. By developing and integrating innovative process technologies, we aim to convert low-value streams into high-value fuels, chemicals, and base oils, ultimately enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of these facilities. This vision is closely aligned with the "refinery-of-the-future" concept, where traditional refining operations are transformed into integrated, flexible, and sustainable production hubs that prioritize the production of high-value chemicals, fuels, and materials. A key driver of this shift is the adoption of a circular economy approach, which converts waste streams into valuable resources and turns sustainability into an opportunity. Furthermore, our pioneering work in the conversion of CO2 into e-fuels is contributing to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and achieve a net-zero future. By combining academic research with industry expertise, we are developing new technologies that address pressing global energy challenges. This partnership is crucial for driving progress towards a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient future, where refineries and petrochemical plants play a vital role in meeting the increasing demand for high-value chemicals and fuels while minimizing their environmental footprint.

Biography

Dr. Mohammed AlAmer is the Manager & Chief Technologist of Fuels & Chemicals at Saudi Aramco’s Research & Development Center, responsible for the development of groundbreaking downstream technologies, such as low-carbon fuels, crude-to-chemicals, and waste recycling. Prior to his current role, Dr. AlAmer led the Innovation and Product Development Center (LAB7), poised at transforming ideas into start-up ventures. Additionally, he led Technology Commercialization, aiming to develop and execute commercialization strategies for in-house developed technologies. Prior to that, he served as an Advisor to the President of King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals. In 2024, Dr. AlAmer received the Innovators Under 35 Award from MIT Technology Review. Dr. AlAmer holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from McGill University and a PhD in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University.